According to a report from Turkish outlet Fanatik, Man City’s bitter cross-town rivals Man United are contemplating a swoop for Juventus defender Merih Demiral – giving City a battle to land the defender who has been on Pep Guardiola’s radar since January.
Indeed, a past report from Sabah via Sport Witness claims the Sky Blues were ‘ready to offer‘ a cash sum for the player’s services until a long term knee injury effectively ended all January interest in bringing him to the Etihad.
However, United don’t appear too concerned over the player’s fitness, with this latest update courtesy of Fanatik stating that the Red Devils are now showing interest – but they will have to pay €55 million (£48.9 million) to make the deal happen.
Should City make Demiral their prime defensive target?
Yes, absolute colossus
No, there are better options
As a result, City and Guardiola now face a battle with United over potentially landing the player – but should we prioritise Demiral as a defensive target?
According to WhoScored, the 6ft 3 colossus has averaged a 91% pass accuracy out from the back this season – perhaps highlighting that he would be suited under our manager as a ball-playing centre-half.
Even though he started just five Serie A games, the 22-year-old still has plenty of years ahead of him – with his aerial presence also being a factor as to why we should duel United for his signature.
Over 14 starts for previous club Sassuolo during the 2018/2019 season, Demiral won 3.9 aerial duels per game – more than any City player has this season.
He would undoubtedly add some much-needed height to the side, but City may have to act fast given United’s interest.